CORRUPTION AND DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS OF THE LEGISLATIVE INSTITUTION

Abstract

Corruption is a major obstacle to democratic governance in Nigeria because it weakens the efficacy and credibility of key democratic institutions, particularly the legislature. The legislature is responsible for lawmaking, representation and oversight of the executive, and as such plays a central role in promoting accountability, transparency and good governance. Its efficacy and public standing, however, have been damaged by allegations of bribery, budget manipulation, constituency project fraud, misuse of office and weak oversight. This study examines the manifestations of corruption within the Nigerian legislature, the legal actions taken against implicated legislators and the outcomes of those cases, and the implications of legislative corruption for democratic governance. It adopts a qualitative, desk-based approach in which documentary sources were analysed thematically. These sources include scholarly publications, government and court-related reports, media reports on specific cases, and survey and index data from Transparency International and Afrobarometer. The analysis shows that high-profile allegations against legislators have produced resignations and removals from office but very few convictions. Survey evidence indicates that most Nigerians perceive legislators as corrupt and place little trust in the National Assembly. The study concludes that stronger institutional accountability, transparent legislative processes, effective enforcement of anti-corruption laws, ethical leadership and active citizen participation are essential for improving democratic governance in Nigeria. It therefore recommends comprehensive legislative reforms and stronger oversight mechanisms.